Convergence Innovation in Asian Industries

This book deals with both the understanding of, and the explanation of, knowledge about the causes, processes, and patterns of convergence innovation. It argues that the process of convergence innovation is a continuous disequilibrium between reference technology and its matching technology, adjusting the optimal balance between the functions of the two technologies. Contributors describe how convergence innovation is a learning process that requires both vertical and horizontal convergence, and case studies explore the different types of convergence innovation such as outside-in and inside-out.

Convergence innovation has been taking place mainly by applying IT technologies to vast areas of conventional technologies, so that individuals or firms reap the benefits of the convergence between IT and conventional technologies. Such innovations are made possible by convergence, and they ultimately improve the welfare of human beings as companies solve diverse problems and increase employment. Examples in this book include biochemical companies in Indonesia, who were able to increase their market shares in bio-fertilizer and bio-pesticide products through bio-based technological convergence; and textile machinery firms in South Korea who have been survived by achieving convergence innovation on their core competences.

This book was originally published as a special issue of the Asian Journal of Technology Innovation.

Kong-Rae Lee is currently Chair Professor of the Management of Innovation Program at Daegu Institute of Science and Technology, South Korea. He has previously served as policy advisor to the Korean Minister of Science and Technology. His research areas are national, regional, and industrial innovation systems, as well as mega science policies. He has published many books and articles, including The Source of Capital Goods Innovation (1998).